The Frontier #102
Updated Seeker's Roster:
| Name | Race/Sex | Class/Level | AC/HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Armon | H/M | B/5 | 8/31 |
| Arocken | E/M | R/5 | 5/49 |
| Bernice | 1/2/F | T/7 | 0/43 |
| Blod | H/M | F/5 | 0/36 |
| Carnery | 1/2E/M | D/1 | 4/6 |
| Claudius | H/M | INV/5 | 8/24 |
| Dani | H/M | C/1 | 0/6 |
| Finrod | E/M | F-M-T/5-5-6 | 2/36 |
| Jerimiah | 1/2L/M | T/1 | 4/5 |
| Mercy | 1/2DRW/M | F-C/3-3 | 5/22 |
| Padraig | H/M | INV/11 | 10/56 |
| Stephanie | H/F | F/6 | -2/60 |
| Tania | 1/2E/F | C-M/1-1 | 9/5 |
| Zynara | H/F | CON/6 | 7/24 |
SUBJ: Page One (R) FROM: GM Mad 07/31/91 S#: 488596
Pad has teleported Validar home, leaving the group temporarily without a leader. After much discussion, the unlikely duo of Stephanie and Claudius take over.
Stephanie decides to distribute the groups money. Each older Seeker receives 1000 gp, while each new member gets 500 gp. (Post or E-Mail me new purchases.)
A few weeks pass as several of the Seekers pursue personal projects. Eventually the bug to go out and do something overcomes the group. Here's the highlights from that time.
Tania fares better with Claudius' spell book, learning Color Spray and Protection from Evil.
Stephanie's bow is completed.
Pendral accepts Pad's payment and takes a sample of his blood.
"I 'ave the materials to make a small batch of ink. It'll be a few weeks before I get me stock in. There's little I cana do with landshark hides. Try Arax Stonehand. He's a dwarven armor. Perhaps he would be interested in them."
After taking the sample of blood, he asks where he can reach Pad.
"I'll be needin' ya when the time comes. You must be ready then."
Zynara wraps up work on her new spell. She casts the spell in a desired spot. The object forms as she had hoped, but it dissipates when touched. Close, but no cigar. As the saying goes, back to the drawing board.
Eventually, talk will come around to the Elder's. (Not Eldar, Claud)
The pillars under Gateway are not encoded with locations. (Claudius: If I had realized what your intentions were when you copied the carvings, I would have posted this at that time.) That was the main reason Pad teleported back to the ruins by spell, instead of the pillars. The writings on the pillars offer no clues to the artifacts destination(s).
However, the artifact in the ruins does provided locations which Armon did deduce before the group returned. (And as explained last post.)
Basically, you are left with little information on the artifact under Gateway. No locations offered, nor is a method of powering the pillars themselves.
The artifact under the ruins has locations and is powered by magic. One pillar in this formation is believed to lead to New Keln, the seat of Hextorian power in this area. The very same spot where the forces of Cynalon will march in the spring. Learning whether this artifact can save weeks of travel or not is of great importance.
SUBJ: GM Notes (R) FROM: GM Mad 07/31/91 S#: 490001
That basically covers the situation. Last post went into greater detail.
What will the group do??
One morning, Pad receives a message from Pendral. "I am ready", is all is says.
SUBJ: Claudius.. (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/01/91 S#: 850988
Once Claudius learns of the current situation, research wise, he speaks:
"The fact that there are no location symbols on Gateway's pillars puzzles me. There are two possible answers: One- it is simply a receiving point, from the ruins to here. Two- it has something to do with the Keeper of Souls underneath Gateway, which we now believes to be an Elder artifact."
"Here are our options, as I see them."
"One- Go under Gateway, and start experimenting with those pillars. See if they activate by spell, and if they do, see where they want to take us. Dangers are that we could end up on the Abyss for all we know, and that Keeper might take offense."
"Two- Go back to the ruins, and finish Validar's quest of clearing it out. The Cynalon army can still save several weeks if it can MARCH there, and then teleport right into New Keln. It might also have significant shock effect."
"I do think this puzzle needs solving one way or the other, preferably before winter sets in. If we keep the Elder artifacts out of the war, then we have a long, bloody conventional fight. Also, the Kelns might not play fair. I'd rather have troops under New Keln than under Gateway."
He sits back. "Thoughts, people?"
SUBJ: Armon FROM: Omni Tuens 08/01/91 S#: 471117
With 'business' finally slowing down, Armon finally introduces himself to the new Seekers. The bard is a handsome human with a colorful cape whose blades aren't nearly as sharp as his tongue. He makes time to talk with the new members whenever they want to.
When the issue of dividing money comes up, Armon quickly pipes up...
"What about me? I'm certainly not an old Seeker, but I wouldn't call myself new, either."
As far as the group's next step...
"I say we find out where these teleporter locations lead exactly, either through overland travel or blind teleportation. I'm indifferent to which."
SUBJ: Stephanie FROM: Schar 08/01/91 S#: 518486
(Out of Character: Armon would get 1000 gp. I meant that the brand new players would get 500.)
I am greatly pleased to see my longbow completed. Once home, I go to the target range and practice with it. It's a fine weapon, not as special as the one Tiger Cat constructed for me, but it will serve me well.
"Okay, then let's see where the tele-thingee takes us."
Steph gathers her gear and prepares to descend into the caves under Gateway.
SUBJ: Rooster 1 FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/03/91 S#: 831262
Rooster is not exactly sure what to make of access to so MUCH $Money$... he can't Remember when he was last so Flush...
He Thanks the 2 Co-Captains with studied nonchalance (as befits a KingMaker... ;> ), but veritably burns up the pavement to the Herbalist's Shop he found earlier with Mercy (didn't he?) on his earlier jaunt thru Gateway...
There he inquires about vials of Paralytic and/or Sleeping Poisons suitable for treating Arrowheads...
Depending upon Price & Availability, he will attempt to get enuff to treat his 20 Sheath Barb-Heads...
IF he has any $$$ left, he will trot to the Outfitter's for a SMALL Bull's-Eye Lantern & 2 flasks of Oil, & a 100' length of strong, yet lightweight Rope w/ Grappling Hook...
Then, IF there's any $$$ left, he'll drift down into the less savory area of Gateway looking for a set of Thieves Tools & Picks...
He'll return any surplus $$$ to Steph with a smile, get his gear, & be Ready... he's used to traveling light...
SUBJ: Tania FROM: Enchantres 08/03/91 S#: 39827
I give a prayer to Lady Mystra for her allowing to learn the new spells.
I take the gold given to me and go out shopping. 'Anyone wish to come?' I haven't decided on what to buy yet.
'Hello, Armon.' I smile widely when I meet the Bard. 'Perhaps you can show me your skills some night? What do you say?' ;D
I remain silent as the group talks about where to go next. At last I speak up. 'Uhm, excuse me, but isn't playing with artifacts dangerous? I mean jumping into a teleporter without know where you are going to appear is not overly smart! Don't we have away to figure out where we'll end up at?'
SUBJ: Arocken (R) FROM: Wildchilde 08/03/91 S#: 23602
The Elven ranger is growing more and more impatient as the days pass. All of the talk of the artifacts and elders, has really gotten to him. He decides to head of into the woods for a few days to get his 'wits'
He quickly gathers his things and heads to the trees, stopping only to pick up some extra arrows and a tent
He will spend the next 3 days hunting and fishing (New NWP, I think I have some coming). If anything is out of the ordinary he will investigate.
"I am off comrades, anyone care to join me??"
SUBJ: Zynara FROM: Tora 08/03/91 S#: 12629
I make a note of the spell as it came out and compare it against the spells I have. I will then go looking for the boy wizard, Padraig (?), and show him the work I have done so far and ask him what I may have done wrong. My spell acted like an illusion instead of creating the object. Being a conjurer, I shouldn't be ending up with illusions.
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/04/91 S#: 1611
Zynara: The spell did create what it was suppose to. It was not an illusion, but rather was too fragile to support weigh. It literally fell apart when touched or walked on.
Rooster: Herbalist Shop
A paralytic poison that can be coated onto arrow shafts will run you 20 gp per use. It would cost you 100 gp to be able to coat 5 arrows.
"Few adventures have use fer coating their weapons with poison. The Crown usually frowns on such things. I have sleeping potions, but they are not suitable to be used on weapons. They need to be drinked, not injected."
You lantern, oil, rope (silk), and grappling hook will run you 24 gp.
Acquiring thieves tools is another matter. Gateway has no known thieves guild. (Another thing the Crown looks down on.) It's not so much that they are not allowed, but rather Gateway was only seriously settled two years ago. The town is more a huge Frontier town. Inquires will lead you to The Stalker's Haven, an pub for those who's professions my be somewhat shady. You locate a man called Stock, who deals in merchandise.
"Why yes, I do have a set of, uhm, acquiring tools. Fifty gold is my price."
SUBJ: Carnery (R) FROM: Cirius 08/04/91 S#: 43945
Well, just joined a new group and already they're planning for action. What to do? Probably I should just stay quiet until I get more experience. That'd be for the best. I guess I'll just stand around and look inquisitive. Seems to be working.
SUBJ: Rooster 2 FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/04/91 S#: 50460
Rooster tells the old geezer at the herbalists he'll take enuff for 10 arrows...
"'n thankee... kin'ly..."
He'll snag the stuff mentioned at the Outfitters + a Blanket (he's tired of racking out in his Poncho in Winter) AND a light weight water proof (he's tired of being soaked thru too, for that matter)...
AND, feigning complete indifference at the Greasy GrubWorm (or Wherever...;> ) , he'll take the 50 gp set (sure the Goober is scrooching him, but "... reckon beggars cain't b' choosers fer truck like this, eh?...)...
So he'll return about 200 GPs (more or less... ;> ) to Steph with another spritely "Thankee... Kin'ly..." & scurry off to his empty (mostly) room to start figgering how many arrows to prepare in advance, etc...
[How long is this stuff volatile? Last forever, weeks, days, minutes - once applied?]
If it lasts a reasonable length of time, say over a week or so, he'll prepare 2 & save 8 in the vials - less, all in the vials... man, that's Stout stuff cost-wise, must be made outta Gold or somethin'...
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/04/91 S#: 49307
After finishing the alchemist the first time, Pad goes off in search of the dwarven armorer, Stonehand. When he locates him, Pad introduces himself as a member of the Seekers. He then asks Stonehand if he would be interested in land shark carapaces.
When the note from Pendral arrives, Pad heads down to his shop with Mending, Mirror Image, and Wizard Eye spells ready to cast.
SUBJ: Armon (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 08/05/91 S#: 54133
Armon is still scurrying around in his typical curious fashion, always doing his best to tag along with anyone going out, and always wearing the same bright cloak.
When Tania mentions she would like him to share his skills with her some night, he nods in agreement. "Anytime you wish, M'lady."
The bard will try to keep his thoughts from wandering...but hey, he is a bard. He soon finds himself pondering things he really shouldn't...
"Gateway is a relatively unexplored town. We were in the tunnel system beneath it for a relatively short time and stumbled on a teleporter. I wonder what else might be down there?"
SUBJ: Mercy (R) FROM: Mastiff1 08/05/91 S#: 4607
Mercy brightens up this new found wealth. "I'll go with ya Tania." he says loudly. A large smile comes to his face as he gets the expected look from Tania.
If Tania accepts his company or not, Mercy will go and pick up the armor he looked at earlier. He will then find someone to put an elaborate drawing of a owl on the breast plate ."Wait a minute, where is Bright Eyes?" Then he'll remember its mating season and he begins to hope that she'll come back.
Mercy will present Zynara and Blod, his holy symbol for Ross. "I've had that symbol ever since I joined the faith so long ago. May it protect him as it did me."
SUBJ: Rooster 3 FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/05/91 S#: 470842
Since there seems to be Time...
Rooster will go see Claudius & ask if any of the Mages can cast a Spell on his Dagger to eliminate the need for carrying a Torch?...
He doesn't know beans about the ways of Mages, but has heard about something like this...
He ain't THAT big a guy after all, & any weight saved would be helpful...
He will go see whoever Claudius recommends & ask, but will want to make sure the Spell's Light will be shut off when the Dagger is in it's sheath - he doesn't want to go marching along glowing like a FireFly... :>
BACK at the Herbalist's:
Rooster will ask about the ingredients to the Poison, exhibiting his own knowledge of Herbalism & inquiring as to any special "needs" the Herbalist has, with an eye to scooping up a few extra Frondwhistles (or whatever the local coins are called... :> ) when they go out...
Back at the Greasy GrubWorm:
He will ask Stock if there are any special things HE might be in the market for, as well... ;>
IF there's time... he will ask Steph and/or Claudius First... Rooster will ask the Ranger Arocken if he'd like some Company... if so, he'll accost Canery the Druid & ask him if he's UP to a little Winter's jaunt to get the ol' juices flowing... if so, they're OFF... :>
If there's NOT time, he'll just stick around on "stand-by", he SHOULD be ready NOW...
DARN... he'll also want to know how many days rations they should carry & try & mooch those from the kitchen without having to go out again...
AND - for the record - despite appearances, he kept not a KOPEK from the funds... no sense in carrying extra weight when he's hooked up with such a generous, thoughtful group... ;>
The Frontier #103
The Seekers continue to relax in Gateway.
Pad goes in search of Arax Stonehand, the dwarven smithy that the Alchemist Pendral mentioned. Arax is located in a rundown and filthy shop. After waiting several minutes for an apprentice to fetch Arax, the dwarf enters. He is short, as dwarfs go, and covered with soot and grim.
"What ye be wantin' boy?"
After Pad explains about the landshark hides the dwarves mood brightens considerably. Upon examining them, Arax notes that he could make something useful out of them.
"I'll give ye 2000 gold coins for the whole lot."
One afternoon, Pendral summons Pad to his shop. The blood sample that Pad left is ready to receive the final spells to create a homunculus. Pad casts these spells and the fluid coagulates into a small, humaniod-form with green, reptilian skin and leathery bat-wings. The newly created creature turns it's gaze to Padraig.
"What is your bidding, master", it mentally speaks to Pad.
Rooster and the herbalist:
"The paralytic poison will remain on a blade for several days", the herbalist explains. "However, the longer it remains, the weaker it becomes. It will remain at maximum strength for one full day."
When asked for the formula for the poison, the Herbalist smiles widely as he replies. "Sorry, son. Trade secret. It's how I stay in business. Let's just say that an important ingredient is Dreadmoss, a bluish-green moss that grows only in swamps."
"There are far too many ingredients and plants that are valuable to list them all. If you do have some skill, then you should be able to know you found something unusual when you come across it. I occasionally buy herbs brought to me by adventurers."
Stock gives pretty much the same reply. He is looking for no one particular item of merchandise. But will consider buy things brought to him. Within reason of course.
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/07/91 S#: 484619
Let's see if we can determine what the group is going to do next during this post. Some of the newbies are starting to fall asleep! ;)
Minor experimentation will show that the pillars under Gateway function the same as the pillars in the ruins. They are powered by magic, but have no labels. Each pillar could lead to a separate location, or the whole artifact may have one arrival point.
Before departing, I'll need to know how many days of rations you'll be carrying and any additional equipment. I'll need new spell lists for when you do move on.
I've received indirect E-Mail concerning Blod. Basically it said that he will not be online "until further notice". Their wording, not mine.
It looks like Blod, Finrod and Bernice are now NPC's. As such, all 3 will remain behind in Gateway when the group moves out.
Now what gang??
Spectrum's Comments: Arax Stonehand is yet another member of the Stonehand Clan. In hindsight, I should have just had Blod, Finrod and Bernice go along on the mission as all three returned shortly after this! Oh well!
SUBJ: Claudius.. (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/08/91 S#: 507345
"Quite simply, I'm ready to go.", Claudius speaks. "It may not be wise, but I say it's time to go find out where that underground teleporter can take us. Perhaps one of us alone, so that Pad can yank him or her back if things go badly.."
SUBJ: Armon FROM: Omni Tuens 08/08/91 S#: 58899
The bard manages to find the time to go dagger hunting before the departure, being a big collector. He'll pick up anything exotic or magical he can find and afford. Also, he'll look around for anything which could give him extra protection without weighting him down.
When the subject of using teleporters comes up, Armon quickly pipes up. "I want to go first- after all, I'm the best candidate, since I can cast spells and use a sword... not to mention that I 'relate' to people well. Besides, the group will survive if I don't- and we simply don't have time to go it the long way."
SUBJ: Stephanie FROM: Schar 08/08/91 S#: 462251
Shouting voices disrupt the quiet of the Seekers mansion. Those who do look to see what is going on she Steph and Fin in a loud shouting match. It ends with Fin leaving.
(The only think I could think of to explain the lack of having a husband around! ;D)
Steph is rather irritable for the next several days. To take her mind off of things, she throws herself into trying to co-run this group.
I am puzzled when Rooster gives me gold back.
"You do not have to return the money. You may keep it. If you don't want to take it with you, then stash it somewhere."
The role of leadership is not an easy one. There are so many things to consider and to organize. It all makes my head throb.
"Ahm, well for food why not take two weeks rations. We won't be taking the mounts, so carry only what you can really carry."
One afternoon, while in the midst of a bad mood, I corner Claudius.
"Have you mages figured out what we are going to do next? Let's get hopping! I want to go somewhere. Anywhere!! Just far away from Gateway!"
Spectrum's Comments: I would imagine that Stephanie is a bad mood is not a pretty sight.
SUBJ: Padraig (R) FROM: GM Shifty 08/08/91 S#: 46887
First Pad casts an Invisibility spell on his new homunculus. He then tells it to ride on his shoulder and keep a watch out for anyone sneaking up on him.
At the armorer's shop, Pad smiles at the dwarf. "Actually, my group was thinking more of a trade arrangement. We let you have the carapaces, and you give us one of the shields you'll make from them."
Finally, Pad enters the discussion about exploring the pillars. "Look, nobody goes alone. If anyone were to go alone, it would be me, since I can get back under my own power. A small group of say 3 will go through first. I'll be one of the 3. I suggest we first try powering up the pillar that faces towards the ruins. If that gets us there, we can come back here and see where the others bring us. If it goes somewhere else, we'll take a quick look around to be sure it isn't lethal there and then come back for everyone else."
SUBJ: Armon FROM: Omni Tuens 08/09/91 S#: 45821
Armon waits for Padraig to finish, then quickly speaks again.
"Fine. You're one, and I'm two. Shall we bring along one of the new recruits to break them in, and to make it a trio?"
SUBJ: Stephanie (R) FROM: Schar 08/09/91 S#: 462814
"I shall be the 3rd member. Someone has to watch you two."
"Pad, I realize that this kind of thing is out of my league, but should we not see if the connection to New Keln works? After all, it's the important one for the war."
SUBJ: Tania (R) FROM: Enchantres 08/09/91 S#: 501211
I let out a small scream when Mercy asks if he may accompany me. I quickly apologize, but seem nervous throughout the conversation. 'Sorry, Mercy. I was brought up to fear and hate Drow. It will take me some time to get used to you. You are a priest of Mortidus? I suppose that you can't be all bad then. I suppose that you can come along. Just don't go sneaking up in me again!"
During the shopping trip, I mainly purchase new clothing. I select a new dress, ribbons for my hair and slippers.
I smile back as when I speak to Armon. 'I'm sure that you are very skilled. Perhaps tonight, if you are not otherwise engaged.' If Armon agrees, I'll follow him to a place of his choosing to listen to him play.
When we appear to be getting ready to move on, I'll approach the nearest mage. 'Excuse me, put what spells would you suggest I place into memory. Do all the mages coordinate their spells? I've never had to prepare a spell list for an actual adventure.'
'Say, what about those magic items you were looking over? I could carry some of those potions for you all.' ::Smiles innocently::
SUBJ: Claudius FROM: GM Falcon 08/09/91 S#: 491026
If Claudius happens to hear Steph talk to Pad about New Keln, he will rumble up:
"We don't know WHERE they'll wind up, lassie. That's the problem. They could end up at the ruins, at New Keln, at the forty-second layer of the Abyss, at Shadowkeep.. you get the point?"
"Good luck to you. I can do little that Pad can not, so my place is here."
He will purchase the rations, and that's about it for now.
SUBJ: Padraig (R) FROM: GM Shifty 08/10/91 S#: 461219
Following up Claudius' comments, Pad says, "Even if we knew which pillar was supposed to lead to New Keln, if in fact any do from here in Gateway, that would be the LAST one we'd experiment with. Using it too soon might very well tip our hand and ruin its value. First we find out the in's and out's of the system exploring the rest of it. Then, we'll worry about the portions of it we actually want to use in an attack."
"By the way, as Tania pointed out, there are a bunch of items floating around loose. Might I suggest that our leaders assign them to the people they think can make the best use of them. For myself, I have no great interest in any of it. The Brooch of Shielding would be the only thing I'd have any slight interest in."
SUBJ: Rooster 1 (R) FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/10/91 S#: 793572
At the Herbalists:
"Dre'dMoss, eh?... can be nasty stuff, Cousin... but Ah'll keep 'er in mind... 'n see if'n Ah cain't dredge up sum int'restin' stuff fer ya on mah nex' jaunt... Ah'm shore we'll be a'seein' mo'uv each othah... Thankee... Kin'ly...
OK - so no Winter's March with Arocken or Carnery... :>
To Steph:
"Walp, Ma'am, Ah'll be swan if'n this bunch ain't th' downright Loosest wi' it's jinglies thet Ah've EVER had th' pleasur' t' be hooked up with... not thet Ah mind, y'un'erstan'... 'n... Thankee... Kin'ly...
"Ummm... By the wah, Ah (& h'af o' Gat'Way prob'ly) couldn't hep a'hearin' yer "problem"...
"Small comfert, Ah know, Ma'am, but yer got t' re'lize them Elf's take "Th' Long View" o' thangs...
"Sumtimes, thangs jist don'... continyah... as we'd like... if'n we had 'r druthers...
"Jist try 'n 'memeber, howsomever 't falls, thet 't's prob'ly fer th' bes' fer th' both 'f yer, eh?...
"Yer got a Mighty impo'tant job HERE now, & leas' NOW yer don' hafter be a'worryin' 'bout 'im a'gettin' hisse'f killed...
"...Sorry if'n Ah've spoken outta turn, Ma'am... Ah try t' min' mah own & let othahs min' theirs...
"...but Ah jist couldn't let it lie a'festerin' in yer Craw wi'out a small word o' comfert-like... bad fer you... bad fer us to be a'dependin' on yer when yer ain't... yerse'f..."...
With that, Rooster scurries away... to stash the MotherLode in his room... a seperate problem in itself considering time constraints... ;>
Later, Rooster backs Pad's plan of the Gang of Three...
But he'd like to be the third - tho he certainly doesn't want to antagonize Steph "at this time of trouble"...
He'll present his arguments to Claudius & IF they have merit... let HIM face Steph... :>
"Sonny theah's th' mos' pow'ful Mage, Ah heah, & th' Talespinner DOES have a blade 'n a few Spells...
"ME... Ah "seek"... as Ah said befo'... 'n seem t' be th' onliest one 'vailable at th' moment... uv mah partic7lar "bent"...
"Ah got Sam ColtsFoot's "great Eq'alizer"..."...
::holding up the vials he obtained::
"...'n Me 'n Sonny 'r both SMALL... whick kin be an advan'ge goin' inter unknown terr'tory... 'n Ah'm tougher then Ah look..."...
::smiles wickedly::
"With me... we might have thet little "edge" yer always look fer... we don' mean to Assault this place after all, jist nose 'roun' sum... right?...
"Fin'ly Ah WANT t' go... thet's th' reason Ah'm heah, after all... So what say y' goes 'n talks t' the Ma'am & Let's git after it, eh?..."...
Subsiding for a moment to let THAT sink in... he'll pipe back up...
"But where'n Tarnation is th' Mage thet's gonna put th' "light" SHEZZAM on mah Dagger?... Feller gotta ast twicest fer Ever'thang 'roun' here or What?..."...
As to possible "loan out" of Magic Items to Rooster - the Magic Halfling Armor MIGHT interest him IF it doesn't Cramp his abilities any - otherwise... Nah...
I don't know what else is "available", as in "not claimed", someone will have to go over THAT... plus he doesn't want to step on anyone's toes or cramp their style by asking for things others have or can use BETTER than he... he IS a "newbie"... Let the Honchos decide that FOR him... :> ... that's what they're THERE for... ;>
IF selected... he'll ask Arocken, Carnery, or Mercy to "hold" his pack - taking only his weapons (w/ 2 "treated" arrows - marked w/ string), 3 more Vials, his Rope, & 2 days rations (in a sack) & water... they can bring the rest thru IF they stay...
SUBJ: Carnery FROM: Cirius 08/10/91 S#: 815524
The young druid merely watches the conversations that are going on around him. He seems quite quiet, and drawn back. He will accept any plan the team decides on.
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/11/91 S#: 36469
Armon locates several interesting daggers in the market place. Non are magical, but several have intriguing designs. (Such as dragon's tooth dagger, a jet dagger, bejeweled daggers, etc.)
The most expensive dagger would run about 500 gps.
As far as better protection goes, purchasing better armor is the only way you can find to go. Bards can wear up to chain mail.
Pad's creation follows his commands and flies to his shoulder.
Stonehand considers Pad's offer.
"Hurmph... Very well. I accept the terms. It'll take me three weeks to fashion the shield. Come back then."
A quick experiment shows that the pillar facing due west (towards the ruins) leads to the ruins. Pad powers up the artifact as he did the one in the ruins.
The group appears back at the ruins. No one or thing is around. The shaft leading down to the zombie caves is sealed off with a Wall of Stone.
You have no trouble in returning.
SUBJ: Stephanie (R) FROM: Schar 08/11/91 S#: 507107
"Oh, I see..."
But Pad can clearly see that Steph does not understand his reasoning.
"Yes, let us hand out the magic items. Since Validar mentioned it before, Arocken can keep the sword, Bernice the armor and Mercy the morningstar. Might as well save the plate armor for Validar."
"I want nothing for myself, but will reserve the right for first dibs next time out. The broach is yours Pad."
"Let's see.. that leaves 4 potions, 3 scrolls, the black dog, the Wand and the Elf sized chain. Who wants what? Also, the older members get first dibs. Should any items remain the new members can take what they want. Next time they will get a fair shot at treasure."
I remain irritable as Rooster speaks. I suppress and incredible urge to shout "shut up!". ;D
"Thank you, Roster. I guess I needed that."
::gives him a quick hug::
After seeing that we appear back in the ruin caves, I give a disappointed shrug.
"That was fun. Which one are we going to try next?"
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/11/91 S#: 484510
"Well, the next question is how the rest of the pillars relate to the names on the pillars in the ruins. What I would suggest is that we go back to the ruins and try the pillar that goes to that island. It sounds fairly innocuous. After we find out what that landing zone looks like, we can come back to Gateway. From here, we try to discover which of the pillars reaches the island, starting with whichever one is pointing in the correct compass direction. Once we figure out how the names in the ruins relate to the pillars here in Gateway, we can continue our explorations from Gateway directly."
SUBJ: Armon (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 08/12/91 S#: 794583
Armon browses through the market place, showing casual interest in the dragon tooth dagger, but not buying it. He decides to pass entirely on buying new armor, as it would hurt his mobility too much.
When the subject of distributing goods comes up, Armon casually asks..
"That dog certainly looks interesting...does it do anything?"
Armon is also eager to continue the experiments with the pillars, determined that excitement must surely be awaiting him on the other side.
SUBJ: Claudius (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/12/91 S#: 829254
(Mad, can you repeat a list of the rest of the 'goodies' please?)
Claudius will nod coolly when they arrive back in the ruins.
"Good.", he answers calmly. "We're making real progress."
When Pad's plan is brought forth, he will nod again. "It's the quickest way to get the job done. Only now, since we know the teleporters are relatively safe, we all go. Together we have a greater chance of getting out of a 'deathtrap' than alone. Agreement? Disagreement?"
SUBJ: Fiben Bolger (R) FROM: FatalCharm 08/12/91 S#: 791606
Once again, there is a knock on the door of the mansion. When it is answered, in strides a young elf. He has jet black hair, long on the sides and back reaching about halfway down his back. He is wearing soft brown boots, black Breeches, a dark blue tunic with silver colored trim, a black vest with dark gray trim, and a black cloak. He looks around at the group with sparkling eyes as blue as the sky, bows slightly with a slight nod of the head, and then cracks a grin so bright it would charm the most miserable of souls.
"Hiya Mighty Seekers!"
When anyone from group questions the elf, he tells them his tale:
"My name is Fiben Bolger. (Fib-en Bowl-gear) As you can see, I am a full blooded elf. My parents were skilled and gifted mages, but they were close to 1,000 years when I was born. So their power is waning, and you would not have heard of them. The returned here from the place Elves go when they are old when I born as they thought this would be the best place for me to grow. Now, they have gone back.
Almost as soon as I was able to walk, they recognized my incredible ability to move with the stealth and silence of a cat. They used to go crazy trying to find me, and usually I was blending with my environment, hiding right under their noses. Of course, they were quite pleased when I grew older and they discovered I had inherited their ability to understand and use magic. (Though I have a long ways to go). You have not heard of me before this mainly because my parents kept me a secret and kept me hidden as they educated and trained me. Even as a child, in those days, there were many who would have found me a threat and would not have wanted to allow me to reach adulthood. I was shuffled from town to town by my parents, and this is my first time in Gateway.
Spectrum's Comments: Another new player and one who would last until the end. Fatal also portrayed Jubal over in Borderlands.
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/12/91 S#: 825101
To Armon, "The statuette will turn into a living dog of exceptional intelligence when you speak the proper words. It will even be able to speak with you. It makes a very good tracker. However, the 'dog' can only be summoned from the statuette for a few hours in the course of a week."
When Claudius speaks about taking the whole group through at once, Pad nods, "But, remember that moving the whole group back and forth will take a significant number of spells. I think that for the initial jaunt through each pillar it would be wiser to keep to a small group. Then, when we are sure the landing zone is relatively safe, we can bring the entire group through and explore each place thoroughly."
During this time, Pad tells all the members of the group, including the new comers, that he will provide them with a Stoneskin if they want one. Pad will keep 2 available each day.
In an aside to Claudius as the new elf speaks, "Quite full of himself, isn't he. I hope he doesn't overstep his abilities in the field."
SUBJ: GM Notes: Goodies... (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/12/91 S#: 467819
Here's the full list. Items bearing a persons name after them have been claimed by the person.
Longsword +3 - Arocken
Philter of Persuasiveness
Scroll of Prot. From Magic
Scroll of Prot. From Poison
Morningstar +2 - Mercy
Wand of Conjuration
Mage Scroll:
3- Drawmij's Iron Sack
3- Explosive Runes
5- Leomunds Secret Chest
5- Wall of Force
5- Transmute Rock to Mud
6- Chain Lightning
7- Otiluke's Siege Sphere
Plate +5- Validar
Onyx Dog Figurine
Chain +4, Elf-Sized
Dagger (Unknown)
Studded Leather +2 - Bernice
Broach of Shielding - Pad
Potion of Fire Resistance
Potion of Invisibility
Potion of Vitality
Ring (Unknown)
Both the unknown items turned black when Zynara cast her spell. They were never ID'd.
SUBJ: Claudius.. (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/12/91 S#: 18843
Claudius examines his list of the remaining 'goodies', and speaks their names aloud (see last post for details). "If anyone wants one of them, speak up. Don't be shy, worse case scenario you get a 'No'. These items will do us no good if we store them in a closet here."
"Both Pad and I would have no use for a Wand of Conjuring. No one else has much use for such a wand until they receive sufficient experience. I think we'll either have to sell it or hold it in trust."
"Armon..", he says, after Pad explains about the dog, "..if you want it, it's yours."
"Whoever is gonna do the talking for the party should take the philter. A rogue should take the potion of invisibility. The others I have no thoughts on...I will hold the mage scroll in trust, though it can be considered communal property. Okay with y'all? Unless someone cares to ID the ring and dagger, I would not vote to trust them at this time."
SUBJ: Armon (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 08/13/91 S#: 490565
"Okay..." the bard speaks up..."I'll take the dog. It could be useful while we explore with these teleporters. Also, I'm pretty proficient with the tongue...I can do the talking if you like. I'd be willing to take either the philter of persuasiveness or the potion of invisibility."
When Pad asks about Stoneskin, Armon agrees. "I could certainly use one or two.. at least until I'm able to come up with some better protection."
SUBJ: Fiben Bolger (R) FROM: FatalCharm 08/13/91 S#: 491983
As Fiben speaks, he over hears a comment about the new elf being full of himself and immediately feels his face turning red with embarrassment. He wonders if he is telling too much about himself, then decides that no, they must want to know who he is before they let him join up. He hopes he has not given a bad first impression. Being sheltered and hidden away most of his life, he is lacking in social skills, and definitely has never had to give a speech in front of anyone, especially not a large, powerful, famous group such as the Seekers.
Then he continues in a much more serious tone...
"My parents taught me the basics, but I have a long way to go in my education. And I totally lack experience. In return for being allowed to train alongside and learn from, the Seekers, I vow my services and my loyalty to the Seekers for as long as that service does not go against my higher cause. And that higher cause is this: In my life thus far, I have seen much of this land and all the beauty it holds. Though I don't know much of the specifics of our History, I have heard some awful horror stories of the destruction and evil that has taken place in this land and still takes place. Most of it at the hands of the hated Keln. I have dedicated my life to saving this land and all its beauty. The best way I could strive to do that, I feel, is at the side of the seekers."
Fiben stands silent for a few minutes, taking in the gaze of the group. Then he flashes that huge shinning grin again.
SUBJ: Fiben Bolger (R) FROM: FatalCharm 08/13/91 S#: 459415
Fiben announces that he has a some gold pieces, not much, but its all his parents saved, as they no longer have a need for money, and he is going to step back out to look around and do some shopping. "But First, is there someone who could show me where to stick my storage chest?"
When presented with an extra 500GP as a gift from the Seekers to go shopping with, his mouth drops open in disbelief, and he restrains himself from jumping and dancing around the room, as he sincerely and politely thanks Stephanie and the rest of the Seekers.
"Can someone give me directions to the Stalker's haven? I heard a rumor I can find a set of thieves picks there."
Just before Fiben leaves, he over hears mention of a Potion of Invisibility the Seekers have found, and stops dead in his tracks. His facial expressions seem to scream with desire and envy. But he would dare not mention a word of his desire, after already having received the 500gp so generously given to him. Of course, he need not mention it, since anyone glancing in his direction would have seen how obviously he wants it.
By the way, he will buy the same amount of rations as everyone else for the upcoming adventure.
And with a barely noticeable wink of an eye, Fiben slips soundlessly back out the door.
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/13/91 S#: 848225
(For Fiben's benefit:)
Pad appears to be a 12 year-old human boy. He carries a staff and wears dark red-brown robes. His hair is a wild mop of red that appears never to have known the use of a comb. During introductions, Pad identifies himself as a wizard.
When Claudius talks about the wand, Pad shakes his head, "Actually, Claudius, both you and I can use one function from that wand. Since a Prismatic Wall is both Evocation and Conjuration, we can use that function. In fact, I had such a wand with my old party. I gave it up when a Conjurer joined the group, since she could make better use of it."
"There is also no required level to make use of most of the wand's functions. A first level mage could use the Unseen Servant, Curtain of Blackness, and Prismatic Wall effects. It is only the Monster Summoning effects that require the wielder to be of a certain level before they will function."
SUBJ: Tania (R) FROM: Enchantres 08/13/91 S#: 802643
'I'll take a Stoneskin also Mage Pad. Thank you very much!'
I mostly watch as the items are gone over. But when Pad and Claudius talk of the Wand I put my two cents in. 'Excuse me, Mages, but is not Zynara a Conjurist? Surely, she could use the wand to it's fullest. As I stated earlier, I'll carry whatever potion or scroll remains unclaimed.'
The day before we depart, I'll cast Armor on myself. When we do go, my spells will be: CLW*2, Magic Missile
'Hello, Fiben. I'm also new.' :D
SUBJ: Zynara (R) FROM: Tora 08/13/91 S#: 62851
Zynara plods on in from the lab. Those near her hear, "I know that spell should have worked! Why didn't it work? Maybe I need a few days break and then try again."
When word reaches me about the wand, "A wand of conjuration! I wonder what it would do in the hands of a conjurer like me? Maybe I can learn to recharge it? Can I have it please?"
When talk of going out again adventuring comes to play, Blod and Zynara go off to be by themselves. When they return, Zynara looks to Blod, "Are you sure?" He nods his head in response.
"Blod and I have decided that Ross will have one of us with him at all times. Blod has decided that he will stay back while I help the group explore. The servants here along with Blod should be able to handle Ross. May the gods bless us so I can rejoin my son as soon as possible."
SUBJ: Dani FROM: Thwap 08/13/91 S#: 493789
After a few days of stashing all the unnecessary gold in his room, Dani comes out to join the rest of the seekers. He'll keep very much to himself, occasionally placing a restraining hand on Tania when she gets a bit too enthusiastic. Upon hearing of Stoneskin spells being tossed around, he'll also request one to be on the safe side. For the loose items, Dani will show very little concern about them preferring to explore the mansion and city.
SUBJ: Fiben (R) FROM: FatalCharm 08/14/91 S#: 42637
When Fiben returns from checking out the market places, he has his arms loaded and looks exhausted. He is now also wearing leather armor, with a long sword at his side and a short bow across his back. As he heads for his room to organize his stuff, he is overheard mumbling "Can't believe how beautiful those twins were I saw out on the street. My parents definitely hid me away to long".
When it is time to leave for our next adventure, I'll leave 5 flasks of lamp oil, the 120 flight arrows, and 38 sheath arrows in the large chest in my room. On my back, I'll wear my back pack which will contain the other 5 flasks of lamp oil, bullseye lamp, thieves picks set, 3 torches, flint/steel, grappling hook, merchants scale, 4 chalks(1 each of white, black, red, and blue), 6 candles, 2 fish-hooks, mirror, 10 sheets of paper, ink, and a Signal Whistle. My 50' of silk rope is tied to my belt, and my quiver is on my back along with 150 Sheaf Arrows. (what doesn't fit in the quiver can go in the back pack). I'm also wearing a large Belt pouch, currently empty. If I need to lighten myself in battle or for a task, I can drop my backpack and rope, thereby losing at least 38 lbs.
When greeted by Tania, Fiben blushes slightly, and bows to kiss her hand. "Pleasure's all mine, Ma'am"
He then approaches Pad to offer a suggestion for a safer way to research the Pillars. "Pad, Forgive me if my logic isn't right, I am not the most experienced mage. but it seems to me that part of the technique you used to send Validar home, could be used to research the Pillars. After you made contact with Validar's object with the Magic Mirror, you studied 'the real scene...carefully'. If you can use the Mirror to look around a specified object, couldn't you send some sort of unique object with the pillars, then use the Magic Mirror to see where the object ended up. If it appears safe, then people could follow to check out the area and retrieve the object. I would send a simple stone, but with features which separate it from any others. That way, if it should pop up in the middle of New Keln, hopefully no one will notice a stone appearing on the ground. Will this work?
**************************************
Out of Character note: Mad, Note, that my supplies are the same as what I Emailed you with the addition of the belt Pouch, and I only bought 50' of Silk Rope instead of 150'
And yes, I ALWAYS over-pack! LOL
SUBJ: Claudius... (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/14/91 S#: 801482
"On the goodies front, here is what is left. Also, here is a list of those whho haven't gotten anything out of this."
List: Philter/Persuasiveness, Scroll/Prot from Magic, Scroll/Prot from Poison, Chain +4, Elf sized, Potion- Fire Resistance, Potion- Invisibility, Potion- Vitality, (Ring, Dagger, unIDed)
Personnel: Blod, Carnery, Dani, Finrod, Jeremiah, Stephanie, Tania, Fiber
"Steph has voluntarily bowed out of this round. Fin and Blod aren't coming with us, so we might be able to ask them to wait as well."
"Despite the fact that this leaves a bunch of newcomers to our group, we should not be afraid to strengthen them. I'd rather have them capable of some resistance, then have them possibly helpless."
SUBJ: Claudius.. (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/14/91 S#: 819028
Claudius will blink at Zynara: "My apologies, lady..", he says formally, "..I didn't realize you were a specialist in the conjuration field. You are indeed best qualified." He hands her the wand.
When Armon also mentions the philter of persuasiveness, (as well as the dog), he grimaces at Steph: "One of his skills is a logical choice for spokes- man, unless one of us should be doing it..", he remarks.
He glances at the newcomer (Fatalcharm, wotever), and notes his interest in the potion. He says nothing at this time. If no one else is interested, he is inclined to give the potion over, though he has noted Armon's interest as well.
Noting Steph's silence (until about ten seconds after I finish posting, no doubt..), he will sit back and see if anyone wants anything else.
SUBJ: Mercy (R) FROM: Mastiff1 08/14/91 S#: 803167
Mercy comes shambling out of his room in his new black banded armor.
"I'm ready to go."
"Hello." is how Mercy greets Fibal.
Mercy will look over the items again, but will have no interest in it. Mercy will grab his backpack(w/ an extra 2wks worth of rations) and be ready to leave, whenever the Seekers leave.
For the newbies:
Mercy is a 5'7" 1/2 drow elf. He has black and white peppered hair tied into a tail along his back. His eyes glitter a brilliant green. Around his neck and on his armor is the symbol of Mortidus (Owl), god of Wisdom, as well as a large morning star at his waist.
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/14/91 S#: 503676
To Fiben, "So far we have only successfully used the Pillars to transport people and their gear. I am not sure if it will transport an object alone. On top of that, scrying is one of the most common actions to set up magical alarms and defenses against. Scrying after the object would cause as much of a ruckus as going ourselves."
SUBJ: Fiben FROM: FatalCharm 08/14/91 S#: 460897
Hmm, So far I've been called Fiber and Fibal. Oh well, close enough I guess. :D
to Pad:
"Ah, thanks for explaining the mysteries of Scrying for me. Even if it makes a ruckus, it seems safer than sending people through. But then we don't call ourselves adventurers for nothing, eh? heh heh."
After thinking about it, Fiben decides to approach Claud and Steph about the potions. After all, what has he to lose? the most they will do is say no...
"If Armon decides he doesn't want the Invisibility potion, I would certainly appreciate having it. If Armon wants it, well, I understand, I'm new here. If he does take it, I would like the Potion of Fire Protection as I'm very vulnerable right now. Even more so since I can only wear Leather Armor. Anything else would hinder my abilities. Which reminds me of the Stoneskin. I could most definitely use that, once we get ready to set out."
If Fiben successfully learned his first spells, (don't know yet if he did), he will stick the Shield spell into memory before setting out.
SUBJ: Rooster last FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/15/91 S#: 483609
Since he didn't get "selected", he didn't prepare any arrows yet...
He just got his gear & is now propped up against one of the pillars waiting for "the Word"...
Hat pulled down over his eyes, feet up on someone's pack & using his own for a pillow...
he'll raise his hat momentarily to tell Claudius...
"Ah don' b'lieve Ah care fo' anythin' raht now, Thankee... Kin'ly...
"S'alraht wi' me if'n Gabby th' Elf has th' Invis'bil'ty Ption... you KNOW whut AH want..."...
::laconically waving his Dagger::
He then slides the hat back down & begins to snore...
Spectrum's Comments: Next time: The Seekers use the pillars to travel once more!